In a statement, the PMO said that TMI’s article entitled “Peningkatan kutipan zakat antara faktor Malaysia diiktiraf Fitch, kata Najib” (Increase in Zakat collection among factors Malaysia recognised by Fitch, says Najib) which was published yesterday is inaccurate.

“The Prime Minister has never said that the increase in Zakat collection is among the factors Malaysia was recognised by ratings agency Fitch,” it said.

PMO said that in the Aidilfitri aid contribution event organised by the Federal Territory Islamic Religious Council (MAIWP), Najib had said that among the reasons for the increase in collection includes the right policies introduced by the government and good economic management as well as an organised Zakat collection system.

“He also said that Fitch had improved Malaysia’s position from ‘negative’ to ‘stable’ because of the country’s economic standing and management as well as its financial status,” it said.

The PMO also expressed its disappointment with TMI for “twisting statements” from the prime minister and the government, adding that this in turn has caused misunderstanding and worries among the public.